Opening of the La Crosse Public Library, 1888

Proceedings at the Dedication of the La Crosse Public Library, 1888

Much has been written about the explosive growth of public libraries during the Progressive Era, but less about their predecessors. This rare pamphlet was issued when the La Crosse Public Library opened in 1888, thanks to a major bequest following the death of former Wisconsin governor Cadwallader C. Washburn. In addition to describing the building, the pamphlet prints short addresses given during the opening ceremonies. In these, community leaders express their vision of the role and purpose of libraries in frontier communities.